The people's rights movement in the disputed territories of Jammu and Kashmir, specifically in Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, is taking the shape of a smoldering rebellion. On one side, the people of Azad Kashmir have staged long protests for their rights, and now the people of Gilgit-Baltistan are also engaged in the same struggle. Children, the elderly, women, and the youth have all taken to the streets to demand their legitimate rights. These protests are not just a complaint about the lack of basic amenities, but a cry against the violation of the region’s legal and human rights.
According to international law and United Nations resolutions, the welfare of people in disputed territories and the provision of basic facilities is the responsibility of the occupying or controlling country. Pakistan, which administers these regions, appears to be failing in fulfilling the promises it made under the UN resolutions. The protests of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan indicate that their sense of deprivation has been prolonged for far too long.
This region, which is of immense geographical and political importance to Pakistan, still lacks basic facilities like electricity, healthcare, and employment. The participation of women and children in the protests underscores that these issues are affecting every section of society, compelling the public to raise their voices for the survival of their lives.
From a legal perspective, the UN resolutions clearly state that while maintaining the status of the disputed areas, the rights of the people there will be safeguarded. Pakistan, which is itself a supporter of these resolutions, is deviating from its legal and moral obligations by failing to provide rights in these regions. This situation may be considered a violation of international laws.
In addition, this issue is intertwined with the political status of the divided state. The people of Jammu and Kashmir should be granted the right to a free and fair referendum to determine their own future, as per the United Nations resolutions. This right should be unconditional, allowing the people to make their decision without international pressure or interference from any occupying state. This is not only a demand for justice but is also crucial for lasting peace and stability in the region.
The demands of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir fall under the category of basic human rights, but they are also essential for their constitutional status and identity. The ongoing protests stand as a testament to the growing sense of deprivation in these regions. This rebellion is not just the voice of an oppressed nation but a reminder of the promises made by the international community and occupying states to the people of these disputed territories.
It is time for the government to seriously address the difficulties faced by the people of these regions and ensure the provision of their rights. If this smoldering rebellion is ignored, it will ignite and not only impact the political situation of the region but will also have consequences on the international stage. Granting the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir their rights is not just a legal responsibility but a demand for human dignity. Furthermore, granting the people of the state their right to self-determination has become imperative in order to find a just and lasting solution to this dispute.
Written By: Sobia Yaqoob Minhas
Edited By: Zaara Kashmiri
